Guatemala’s Fuego volcano, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, is currently erupting, prompting authorities to evacuate nearly 300 families. Located just 60 kilometers from Guatemala City, the eruption poses a serious threat to around 30,000 more residents who may also face evacuation. The eruption began on Sunday night, forcing officials to close schools and important roads to ensure public safety.
Lahars: The Greatest Danger The main concern surrounding the Fuego volcano’s eruption is not just the eruption itself but the dangerous lahars—massive flows of ash, rock, mud, and debris. These destructive flows have proven deadly in the past and continue to pose a significant risk to nearby villages. The Fuego volcano, known as ‘Chi’gag’ in the Cachiquel language, stands at a towering 3,763 meters high. Its last eruption was recorded in June 2023, and before this latest event, it had been inactive for only 50 days, according to the National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology, and Hydrology (Insivumeh).
A Tragic History The volcano’s history includes a devastating eruption in 2018 that killed 194 people and left 234 missing. This tragic event has made authorities and residents especially cautious about the current situation. The possibility of lahars continues to be a top concern, particularly during periods of heavy rain that can mobilize volcanic material.
Evacuations and Disruptions Many residents have already fled their homes. One of them, Isaac García from El Porvenir, decided to leave with his family for a shelter in San Juan Alotenango, recalling the horror of the 2018 disaster. Authorities have warned that volcanic activity is expected to intensify, with increased material flow reported early this morning.
The eruption has also disrupted air travel, with ash plumes from ‘Chi’gag’ reaching heights of up to 7,000 meters. Airlines are currently facing operational restrictions to avoid potential hazards caused by the volcanic ash, as reported by Insivumeh.
Safety Measures and Future Concerns Government officials are working to provide shelter and resources to those affected while continuously monitoring the volcano’s activity. Emergency protocols have been activated, and authorities are urging residents to follow official instructions to ensure their safety. As the eruption continues, the potential for further evacuation orders remains high.
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